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Identifying characteristics-Lightning
bugs or fireflies are
soft-bodied beetles, up to 3/4 inch long. The first segment of the thorax
hides the head from above. Many larger members have light-producing organs
on the end of the abdomen. Most smaller species do not. The larvae
are flattened, have toothed edges, and may also glow. This glowing is used
to attract a mate.
Biology-The adults do
not feed much. They may snack on pollen or nectar. The
familiar flashing of lightning bugs you see is the female
signaling at flying males. The males are flash back, try to find the
right species females.
The larva are the true
predators, living in the soil they prey on
insects, slugs, and snails.
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